Eyewear including a heads up display

ABSTRACT

Eyewear is provided including a frame, a visor attached to frame and a heads up display. The heads up display may be housed in the visor. The visor may be configured to be positioned in multiple positions relative to the pupil of a wearer&#39;s eye, and/or adjustably positioned so that the heads up display may be transitioned between positions within the line of sight of the wearer and out of the line of sight of the wearer. The heads up display may be configured to be controlled by a remote controller, e.g. a wrist watch. The heads up display may be monocular or binocular. The eyewear may also include an electro-active lens.

RELATED PATENTS AND APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.11/261,035, filed Oct. 28, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 8,778,022, whichclaims the benefit of the following provisional applications: U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/692,270 filed Jul. 21, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/687,341 filed Jun. 6, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/687,342 filed Jun. 6, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/685,407 filed May 31, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/679,241 filed May 10, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/674,702 filed Apr. 26, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/673,758 filed Apr. 22, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/669,403 filed Apr. 8, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/667,094 filed Apr. 1, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/666,167 filed Mar. 30, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/661,925 filed Mar. 16, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/659,431 filed Mar. 9, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/623,947 filed Nov. 2, 2004; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/623,946 filed Nov. 2, 2004; and U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/636,490 filed Dec. 17, 2004, all of whichare hereby incorporated in their entireties by reference.

The following applications, provisional applications, and patents areincorporated by reference in their entirety: U.S. application Ser. No.11/232,551 filed Sep. 22, 2005; U.S. Pat. No. 6,918,670 issued Jul. 19,2005; U.S. application Ser. No. 11/183,454 filed Jul. 18, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/692,270 filed Jul. 21, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/687,342 filed Jun. 6, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/687,341 filed Jun. 6, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/685,407 filed May 31, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/679,241 filed May 10, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/674,702 filed Apr. 26, 2005; U.S.Provisional Application No. 60/673,758 filed Apr. 22, 2005; U.S.application Ser. No. 11/109,360 filed Apr. 19, 2005; U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/669,403 filed Apr. 8, 2005; U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/667,094 filed Apr. 1, 2005; U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/666,167 filed Mar. 30, 2005; U.S. Pat. No. 6,871,951issued Mar. 29, 2005; U.S. application Ser. No. 11/091,104 filed Mar.28, 2005; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/661,925 filed Mar. 16,2005; U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/659,431 filed Mar. 9, 2005;U.S. application Ser. No. 11/063,323 filed Feb. 22, 2005; U.S. Pat. No.6,857,741 issued Feb. 22, 2005; U.S. Pat. No. 6,851,805 issued Feb. 8,2005; U.S. application Ser. No. 11/036,501 filed Jan. 14, 2005; U.S.application Ser. No. 11/030,690 filed Jan. 6, 2005; U.S. applicationSer. No. 10/996,781 filed Nov. 24, 2004; U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 60/623,947 filed Nov. 2, 2004; U.S. application Ser. No. 10/924,619filed Aug. 24, 2004; U.S. application Ser. No. 10/918,496 filed Aug. 13,2004; U.S. application Ser. No. 10/863,949 filed Jun. 9, 2004; U.S. Pat.No. 6,733,130 issued May 11, 2004; U.S. application Ser. No. 10/772,917filed Feb. 5, 2004; U.S. Pat. No. 6,619,799 issued Sep. 16, 2003; U.S.application Ser. No. 10/664,112 filed Aug. 20, 2003; U.S. applicationSer. No. 10/627,828 filed Jul. 25, 2003; U.S. application Ser. No.10/387,143 filed Mar. 12, 2003; U.S. Pat. No. 6,517,203 issued Feb. 11,2003; U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,391 issue Dec. 10, 2002; U.S. Pat. No.6,491,394 issued Dec. 10, 2002; and U.S. application Ser. No. 10/263,707filed Oct. 4, 2002.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to field of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs). Inparticular, the present invention relates to Intraocular Lenses whereinan electro-active element provides at least a portion of the IOL'srefractive power, or prismatic power, or at least a portion of thetinting.

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are typically permanent, plastic lenses thatare surgically implanted inside of the eyeball to replace or supplementthe eye's natural crystalline lens. They have been used in the UnitedStates since the late 1960s to restore vision to cataract patients, andmore recently are being used in several types of refractive eye surgery.

The natural crystalline lens is critical component of the complexoptical system of the eye. The crystalline lens provides about 17diopters of the total 60 diopters of the refractive power of a healthyeye. Further, a healthy crystalline lens provides adjustable focusingwhen deformed by the muscular ciliary body that circumferentiallysurrounds the crystalline lens. As the eye ages, the flexibility of thecrystalline lens decreases and this adjustable focusing is diminished.Thus, this critical crystalline lens almost invariably loses flexibilitywith age, and often loses transparency with age due to cataracts orother diseases.

Most intraocular lenses used in cataract surgery may be folded andinserted through the same tiny opening that was used to remove thenatural crystalline lens. Once in the eye, the lens may unfold to itsfull size. The opening in the eye is so small that it heals itselfquickly without stitches. The intraocular lenses may be made of inertmaterials that do not trigger rejection responses by the body.

In most cases, IOLs are permanent. They rarely need replacement, exceptin the instances where the measurements of the eye prior to surgery havenot accurately determined the required focusing power of the IOL. Also,the surgery itself may change the optical characteristics of the eye. Inmost cases, the intraocular lenses implanted during cataract surgery aremonofocal lenses, and the optical power of the IOL is selected such thatthe power of the eye is set for distance vision. Therefore, in mostcases the patient will still require reading glasses after surgery.Intraocular lens implants may be static multifocal lenses, which attemptto function more like the eye's natural lens by providing clear visionat a distance and reasonable focus for a range of near distances, forpatients with presbyopia. Not all patients are good candidates for themultifocal lens; however, those who can use the lens are some whatpleased with the results.

More recently, accommodative IOLs have been introduced. Theseaccommodative IOLs actually change focus by movement (physicallydeforming and/or translating within the orbit of the eye) as themuscular ciliary body reacts to an accommodative stimulus from thebrain, similar to the way the natural crystalline lens focuses. Whilethese offer promise, accommodative IOLs still have not been perfected.In spite of these limited successes, the multi-focal IOL and presentaccommodative IOLs still have a substantial decrease in performance whencompared to a healthy natural crystalline lens.

Another ocular lens that holds promise for correcting presbyopia is theSmall Diameter Corneal Inlay (SDCI). The Small Diameter Corneal Inlay(SDCI) is a prescription lens that is inserted into the corneal tissueto create an effect similar to a bifocal contact lens. Corneal Inlays(SDCI) are early in their development and it is still too early tounderstand how well they will function and also how effective they willbecome.

While all these emerging surgical procedures have their merits, they allhave a substantial decrease in performance when compared to a younghealthy natural crystalline lens. The present invention addresses theseshortcomings by providing an intraocular lens that behaves in a mannersimilar to the natural crystalline lens.

Over the past decade, the miniaturization of semiconductor chips,sophisticated earphones, non-volatile solid-state memory, and wirelesscommunication (including blue tooth, and other short-range wirelesstechnologies) have ushered in a revolution in personal electroniccomponents and audio listening devices that allows wearers to listen tomusic in a portable, hands-free manner. In addition, recent research anddevelopment has resulted in the development of accessories and featuresfor eyeglasses such as, by way of example only: electro-active spectaclelenses which provide the wearer with variable focus capability,electro-active spectacle lenses that allow for a varying index matrixneeded to correct higher order aberrations to create a supervisioneffect, electronic heads up displays that are associated with eyeglasses, electrochromic lenses that change color and tint by way ofelectrical activation, and also the addition of audio and communicationsystems that are associated with eyeglasses. These new electroniceyeglass applications have created a significant need for a convenient,comfortable and aesthetically pleasing way to provide power to theeyeglass frame and lenses. More and more, the eyeglass frame is becominga platform for associating and housing various electronic accessories.

Currently, there is no known way to electrify the eyeglass frame in amanner that provides a combination of pleasing aesthetics, comfort,convenience, and also allows for the proper ergonomics. While comfort,convenience and ergonomics are important, the proper fashion look of theeyeglass frame is what takes priority when the consumer makes a purchasedecision. If the eyeglass frame is thicker or more bulky looking thannormal, then the purchase decision can be impacted in a negative manner.In addition, if the eyeglass frame is heavier than normal, red inflamedsore spots will occur on either side of the bridge of one's nose or thetop of the ears. In the case of active work or sports, such as, by wayof example only, construction work, running, biking, walking, rowing,and horseback riding, the heavier eyeglass frames are, the more pronethey are to slide down ones nose, and thus the alignment of the lensoptics will not be optimal.

SUMMARY

An illustrative aspect of the invention provides an intraocular lenssystem comprising an electro-active lens comprising multipleindependently controllable zones or pixels, and a controller capable ofbeing remotely programmed.

The present subject matter provides an inventive solution, whichaddresses and corrects this pressing need. The invention does this in amanner that is allows for the eyeglass frames to continue to appear likeconventional fashionable eye glass frames whether they be dress glasses,sport glasses or goggles, security glasses or goggles, sunglasses orgoggles. It also takes the added weight of the power source off of theeyeglass frame and places this weight were it is barely noticed if atall. Finally, it provides for doing this in a most ergonomic andconvenient manner.

According to first aspects of the invention, eyewear comprising anelectronic docking station may be provided, whereby the docking stationprovides power to a docked electrical component.

According to further aspects of the invention, eyewear comprising acamera may be provided, whereby the camera is controlled by a remotecontroller.

According to further aspects of the invention, eyewear comprising aheads up display may be provided, wherein the heads up display is housedin a visor affixed to the eyewear.

Other aspects of the invention will become apparent from the followingdescriptions taken in conjunction with the following drawings, althoughvariations and modifications may be effected without departing from thespirit and scope of the novel concepts of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The present invention can be more fully understood by reading thefollowing detailed description together with the accompanying drawings,in which like reference indicators are used to designate like elements.

FIG. 1 displays the major anatomical components of a human eye.

FIG. 2A displays a front view of an intraocular lens embodiment with anelectro-active lens and piezoelectric material as a power supply.

FIG. 2B displays a side view of an intraocular lens embodiment with anelectro-active lens and piezoelectric material as a power supply.

FIG. 3A displays a front view of an intraocular lens embodiment with adiffractive electro-active lens and a rechargeable battery ring.

FIG. 3B displays a side view of an intraocular lens embodiment with adiffractive electro-active lens and a rechargeable battery ring.

FIG. 4A displays a front view of an intraocular lens embodiment with apixelated electro-active lens and a rechargeable battery ring.

FIG. 4B displays a side view of an intraocular lens embodiment with apixelated electro-active lens and a rechargeable battery ring.

FIG. 5 displays an external power supply embodiment with inductivecharging elements inside of a pillow.

FIG. 6 displays an intraocular lens embodiment with an electro-activelens and a control chip with an antenna for use with a wirelessprogramming unit.

FIG. 7A is an image of an healthy retina illustrating the location ofthe macula and the fovea on the retina.

FIG. 7B illustrates an area of the macula that has been damaged by “wet”macular degeneration.

FIG. 7C illustrates an area of the macula that has been damaged by “dry”macular degeneration.

FIG. 8 illustrates the various manifestations of diabetic retinopathy.

FIG. 9 illustrates the stacking of two prismatic lenses with linearelectrodes to produce any combination of vertical and horizontaldisplacement of an image on the retina

FIG. 10 illustrates an electro-active IOL in optical communication witha non-electro-active accommodative IOL.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary eyewear system according to aspects ofthe invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system in which anenclosure contains both a power source and an electronic controlleraccording to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including detailsof conductor connections, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system in which acontroller and power source are connected directly to the frame templesaccording to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates an enclosure including a power source according tofurther aspects of the invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates an enclosure including a power source and acontroller according to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary tether attached to eyewear frameaccording to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 18 illustrates details of an edge connection using magneticattraction according to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 19 illustrates details of an attachment design whereby the templecontains conductive wiring according to further aspects of theinvention.

FIG. 20 illustrates details of attachment of a tether using a clampaccording to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 21 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system including amagnetic connection to the frame temple or frame stem according tofurther aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 22A-22D illustrate another exemplary eyewear system according tofurther aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 23A and 23B illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, includingan optical viewing visor, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 24A-24G illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, includingadjustable lenses, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 25 illustrates an electronic chain according to further aspects ofthe invention.

FIG. 26 illustrates an electronic chain with a pair of electronicreading glasses according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 27A-27D illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, including anelectrical tether containing audio signals from a music player,according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 28A-28C illustrate alternative configurations for breakingconnections of eyewear such as shown in FIGS. 27A-27D, according tofurther aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 29A and 29B illustrate further embodiments including one or moretemple connectors, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 30A and 30B illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, includingaudio connectors, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 31 illustrates an embodiments in which two electronic conductivebuses or wires run along the inside wall of an electronic frame stem ortemple according to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 32 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including a fan inthe bridge of an electronic frame, according to further aspects of theinvention.

FIG. 33 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including aself-contained electronic clip-on module, according to further aspectsof the invention.

FIG. 34 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system according tofurther aspects of the invention.

FIG. 35 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including anelectronic device placed on the back portion of the electronic frametether, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 36A and 36B illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, includinglights placed near the front of the frame, according to further aspectsof the invention.

FIGS. 37A and 37B illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, includingan electronic docking station placed on the back portion of theelectronic frame tether, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIG. 38 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, where the back ofthe electronic frame tether forms a T shape, according to furtheraspects of the invention.

FIG. 39 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including anelectronic device attached to the back of the electronic frame tetherthat may be controlled with a handheld remote controller, according tofurther aspects of the invention.

FIG. 40 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including a remotecontroller, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 41A and 41B illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, includinga camera that is controllable by a remote controller, according tofurther aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 42A-42C illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, including aclip on heads up display, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 43A-43D illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, including aclip on heads up display and/or camera, according to further aspects ofthe invention.

FIG. 44 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including clip onmonocular attachments, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 45A-45D illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, including aclip on visor outfitted with a micro-optical display and associatedviewing optics, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 46A-46C illustrate another exemplary eyewear system, including avisor fitted with a micro-optical display and associated viewing opticsand attached to a frame about a pivot point, according to furtheraspects of the invention.

FIG. 47 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including a 3Dviewing arrangement, according to further aspects of the invention.

FIGS. 48A and 48B illustrate other exemplary eyewear systems, includinga break-away magnetic hinge with electrical contacts, according tofurther aspects of the invention.

FIG. 49 illustrates an exemplary reconfigurable eyewear system,including removable parts, according to further aspects of theinvention.

FIG. 50 illustrates another exemplary eyewear system, including opticaldisplays placed within a visor, according to further aspects of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, various embodiments of the invention will be described. Asused herein, any term in the singular may be interpreted in the plural,and alternately, any term in the plural may be interpreted to be in thesingular.

Electro-active materials comprise optical properties that may be variedby electrical control. For example, transmission of light may becontrolled to produce tinting or a sunglass effect. Further, the indexof refraction may be electrically controlled to produce focusing and orprismatic effects. One class of electro-active material is liquidcrystals. Liquid crystals comprise a state of aggregation that isintermediate between the crystalline solid and the amorphous liquid. Theproperties of liquid crystals may be controlled electrically, thermally,or chemically. Many liquid crystals are composed of rod-like molecules,and classified broadly as: nematic, cholesteric, and smectic.

There are several characteristics of electro-active materials which areuseful in IOLs. First, the optical characteristics may be generated bythin layers (rather than by the curvature of conventional lenses whichmay require thick lenses). These thin layers may be placed in locationswhere it may be difficult to place conventional lenses, for example inthe anterior chamber of the eye (between the iris and the crystallinelens). In addition, it is possible to stack (place in series optically)the electro-active layers in such a manner as to get an additive effectfor the overall optical power created, including prism, conventionalrefractive error, or higher order aberration correction, in a thinstructure that may be placed in either the anterior or the posteriorchamber of the eye.

Second, the optical characteristics may be actively controlled. Forexample, an electro-active lens may designed to become darker (moretinted, and transmit less light) under bright light conditions. Thistinting may be generated automatically by measuring the brightnessusing, for example, a photodiode or solar cell. Alternately, the tintingmay be controlled by the decisions of the user by way of a remotecontrol.

Similarly, the focus of an electro-active lens may be controlledelectrically. The focus may be controlled automatically using, forexample, a range finder, or a tilt meter, or triangulation based on thedirection of both eyes, the forces exerted on the lens by the muscles ofthe eye. Alternately, the focus may be controlled by the decisions ofthe user by way of a remote control.

Third, electrical control creates the potential for correcting complexand high order visual defects. Conventional intraocular lenses arelimited to addressing certain visual defects for various manufacturingreasons. However, an electro-active lens with a large number ofindividually addressable controlled small elements (for example, anarray of very small pixels) may address very complex and high ordervisual defects. Further, the control may be simplified by creatingindividually addressable elements in arbitrary configurations, such as aseries of concentric circles, or a series of approximately concentricellipsis, or whatever customized configuration efficiently corrects thevisual defect. The design, manufacture, and control of an array of smallpixels has similarities with the manufacture of Liquid Crystal Displays(LCDs). Correction of complex visual defects such as higher orderaberrations of the eye creates the possibility of “superhuman” visualacuity, wherein the vision is not limited by the lenses (eitherbiological or corrective), but rather is limited by the inherent anatomyand physics of the photoreceptor cells in the retina. 20/10 vision orbetter is possible even before additional magnification is considered.Further, it is possible for an electro-active lens to act as a telescopeor as a microscope.

Fourth, electrical control creates the potential for changing theoptical characteristics of the electro-active IOL as desired. Forexample, the desired optical characteristics may be determined after theIOL is surgically implanted in order to compensate for any changes thatoccur during surgery, or for that matter an error in calculating orestimating the post surgery refractive error. Similarly, the opticalcharacteristics of the IOL may be varied over time to compensate forchanges in the user's eye. For example, if the user has a degenerativedisease that affects a portion of the retina, then it is possible toremotely cause the implanted electro-active IOL to create prismaticpower or even change its prismatic power in order to shift the image toa portion of the retina that is undamaged. By way of example only, eachmonth (or as needed) the image may be shifted to the remaining undamagedportion of the retina with the highest concentration of receptor cells.This change can be accomplished post-surgically and remotely (meaningwithout additional surgery).

Fifth, electrical control creates the potential for the user toautomatically or instinctively control the focus. For example,contractions of the muscular ciliary body can be measured by anpiezoelectric element (as a strain gauge), and these contractions canthen be used as a control input to electrically adjust the focus of theIOL, similar to the way the ciliary body would focus the naturalcrystalline lens by physical deformation. Additionally, in theory, thefocus could be controlled by electrical signals directly from the brain.Recent development with artificial limbs use this technique.

Sixth, electrical control creates the potential to shift the field ofview, and thus compensate for diseases that prevent the eyeball frommoving. Nervous signals to diseased muscles (that can no longer move theeye) may be intercepted, translated, and used to electrically shift thefield of view.

Seventh, there are many types of electro-active element configurations.These configurations include: pixelated (typically a two dimensionalarray of pixels similar to a liquid crystal monitor on a computer),rotationally symmetric pixelated (for example, a set of concentriccircles), and diffractive. Electro-active individually addressablepixelated diffractive lenses may use concentric ring shaped electrodesto product the diffractive lens power with varying index of refractionwithout physically machining, molding or etching diffractive elementsinto the surface of the lens.

The electro-active element may be used in combination with aconventional lens, wherein the conventional lens may provide a baserefractive power. The electro-active element may be used in combinationwith a diffractive lens having a machined, molded, or etched surface orgeometry. The electro-active element may be used in combination with asecond electro-active element, wherein each may perform a differentfunction. For example, the first electro-active element may providefocus, and the second may provide tinting or may serve as anelectrically controlled aperture, or the second could cause a prismaticshift of the image to the healthy area of a retina of a deceased eye.

Eighth, as discussed above, it is possible to electrically replace manyof the optical functions of a natural eye: tinting may replace oraugment the light reducing effect of the contraction of the iris,focusing may replace the natural deformation of the crystalline lens,focusing and prismatic shifting may replace movement of the eyeball, andso forth. Among other factors, the present invention addresses:positioning the IOL, energy storage, energy recharging, powergeneration, control, steering of the line of site to a targeted regionof the retina altering the refractive power of the eye, augmenting orreplacing the accommodative power of the crystalline lens, remote tuningpost surgery of the electro-active IOL. Tuning comprises altering thepower of the IOL and/or altering the location of the focus on the retinaof the IOL.

FIG. 1 displays the major anatomical components of a human eye. Themajor anatomical components are: conjunctiva 110, ciliary body 112, iris114, aqueous humor 116, pupil 118, anterior chamber 120, crystallinelens 122, cornea 124, extraocular muscles 126, sclera 128, chorid 130,macula lutea 132, optic nerve 134, retina 136, and vitreous humor 138.Although a human eye is described, this invention is also applicable tonon-human eyes such as horses or dogs.

As background, the optical components of the eye will be described indetail. Light entering the eye first enters the cornea 124. The cornea124 is transparent and provides about 40 diopters of the approximately60 diopters total refractive power of the eye. Light then passes throughthe pupil 118. The pupil 118 is an aperture, and is variable in diameterfrom 1 mm to at least 8 mm. This gives an aperture range in excess off20-f2.5, and a ratio of 32:1 for the amount of light permitted to enterthe eye. The iris 114 serves as an adjustable diaphragm creating a pupil118. The light then passes through the crystalline lens 122. Thecrystalline lens 122 is a transparent, encapsulated, biconvex body whichis attached circumferentially to the ciliary body 112. The crystallinelens 122 contributes about 17 diopters to the total refractive power ofa relaxed eye. The refractive power of the crystalline lens 122 may bealtered by contractions of the ciliary muscles in the ciliary body 112,which deform the crystalline lens 122 and alter its refractive power.The light then passes through the vitreous humor 138 and finallycontacts the retina 136. The retina 136 is the sensory neural layer ofthe eyeball and may be considered as an outgrowth of the brain, and isconnected to the brain through the optic nerve 134. Near the center ofthe retina 136, the macula lutea 132 contains a central region ofhighest visual sensitivity called the fovea centralis or foveola (seeFIG. 7) with a diameter of approximately 0.4 mm where the visualresolution is the highest. The small diameter of the foveola is one ofthe reasons why the optical axes must be directed with great accuracy toachieve good vision.

Thus, the human eye has an adjustable diaphragm (iris 114) and anadjustable refractive power (due to the ciliary body 112 deforming thecrystalline lens 124).

An IOL can be placed in one of three locations: in the anterior chamber120, which is between the cornea 124 and the iris 114; or in theposterior chamber (not shown) which is between the iris 114 and thecrystalline lens 122; or as a replacement for the crystalline lens 122.

Generally, if the crystalline lens is diseased or damaged, then an IOLmay be used to replace the crystalline lens. This IOL replacement forthe crystalline lens may be accommodative, or non-accommodative.Replacing the crystalline lens allows the IOL to be convenientlypositioned inside of a clear bag-like capsule that previously held thenatural crystalline lens, and also allows the possibility of retainingsome variable focus capability through interaction with the muscularciliary body which circumferentially surrounds the clear bag-likecapsule. In other cases, the IOL is placed extra capsulary (without thebag-like capsule).

However, if the crystalline lens is still functional, then it may bepreferable to leave the crystalline lens undisturbed and to place theelectro-active IOL into either the posterior chamber or the anteriorchamber 120 of the eye, or into the corneal tissue similar to the SmallDiameter Corneal Inlay (SDCI) discussed above. In these embodiments, theelectro-active IOL could, by way of example only, provide optical powerto correct for conventional refractive errors, correct fornon-conventional refractive errors, create a prismatic image shiftingeffect that moves the location of focus to a healthier area of theretina, and add a tint, as opposed to replacing the optical power of theotherwise healthy crystalline lens.

Conventional refractive error is defined as one or more of: myopia,hyperopia, presbyopia, and regular astigmatism. Non-conventional (orhigher order) refractive errors are defined as all other refractiveerrors or aberrations which are not conventional refractive error.

In many cases, the electro-active IOL may be used during cataractsurgery when the existing crystalline lens is defective. In this case,the electro-active IOL will actually replace the removed defectiveexisting crystalline lens, and may provide a range of electro-activeoptical correction including conventional and/or non-conventionalrefractive errors, as well as provide refractive power to make up forthe lost optical power resulting from the removal of the crystallinelens. In addition, the electro-active IOL can provide for the ability toaccommodate without any movement, translation or change in its surfacegeometry. This is accomplished by localized programmed changes in theindex of refraction of the electro-active IOL.

The most common and advanced cataract surgery technique isphacoemulsification or “phaco.” The surgeon first makes a small incisionat the edge of the cornea and then creates an opening in the membranethat surrounds the cataract-damaged lens. This thin membrane is calledthe capsule. Next, a small ultrasonic probe is inserted through theopening in the cornea and capsule. The probe's vibrating tip breaks upor “emulsifies” the cloudy lens into tiny fragments that are suctionedout of the capsule by an attachment on the probe tip. After the lens iscompletely removed, the probe is withdrawn leaving only the clear (nowempty) bag-like capsule, which may act as support for the intraocularlens (IOL).

Phacoemulsification allows cataract surgery to be performed through avery small incision in the cornea. Stitches are seldom needed to closethis tiny entry, which means that there is less discomfort and quickerrecovery of vision than with other surgical techniques. Small incisionsgenerally do not change the curvature of the cornea (unlike largerincisions that were required with older surgical techniques). Smallincisions for more rapid rehabilitation of vision and possibly lessdependence on glasses for good distance vision.

After removal of the cataract-damaged lens, an artificial intraocularlens (IOL) may be implanted. The IOL may be produced from soft acrylicor solid medical-grade silicone. IOLs may be folded so they can beimplanted with a small injector, which uses the same incision throughwhich the phaco probe was inserted at the beginning of the procedure. Asthe IOL is implanted, it may be allowed to unfold and anchor itselfbehind the eye's pupil over the remaining clear capsule. The IOL(s) tobe implanted may be selected based on power calculations made beforesurgery. In the case of the present invention, the electro-active IOLmay also be selected based on the range of electro-active correctionrequired, the type of any other ocular disease being treated, and anyspecial needs of the patient.

In most cases, the electro-active element would contribute typically+2.5 Diopters, +2.75 Diopters, +3.0 Diopters, or +3.25 Diopters ofoptical power. The base lens portion (which the electro-active elementis in optical communication) which would contribute most, if not all, ofthe approximately 17 Diopters normally provided by the crystalline lens,would be measured and selected prior to surgery. However, unlike aconventional IOL, an electro-active IOL allows for remote tuning of itsoptical power (for example, in case the calculations made prior tosurgery are not optimum after surgery).

FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate an IOL assembly 200 according to anembodiment of the invention. FIG. 2A displays a front view of the IOLassembly, which includes an electro-active lens element 218 powered by athin, annular charge storage capacitor 216 arranged around the perimeterof the electro-active lens element 218. The charge storage capacitor 216is charged by a piezoelectric film 212. The piezoelectric film 212generates this charge as a result of mechanical forces applied by theciliary body (not shown). The piezoelectric film 212 is attached to theciliary body by a ciliary body attachment tab 210.

The ciliary body expands and contracts as the eye attempts to focus fromnear to far and from far to near. The ciliary body movement may producetension and/or compression of the piezoelectric film 212 which produceselectricity. The electricity may be transferred through charging leads220 and used to charge the charge storage capacitor 216 (or arechargeable battery). The charge storage capacitor 216 may power theelectro-active lens element 218 and any related control circuitry (notshown). Typically the electro-active lens element 218 requiresapproximately 1.0 to 5.0 volts, with a preferred range of 1.5 to 2.5volts. These relatively low voltages decrease the risk involved withsurgical placement of electrical devices.

The electrical characteristics of the piezoelectric film 212 undertension or compression may be used as a gauge to determine the desiredviewing distance, and may be used to focus the electro-active lens.Thus, it is possible for the user to instinctively and automaticallycontrol the focus of the electro-active IOL 200 using the muscularciliary body. The contractions of the muscular ciliary body previouslyfocused the subject's crystalline lens by physically deforming it. Usingthe electro-active IOL 200 the instinctive and automatic contractions ofthe muscular ciliary body will change the electrical characteristics ofthe piezoelectric film 212, and these electrical changes may bemonitored by a processor disposed, for example, on a chip (not shown)and used to electrically, variably focus the electro-active IOL 200.Alternatively, the piezoelectric film 212 may be used solely as a gaugefor focusing, in which case, the electro-active IOL 200 would beprovided with a different source of power.

In some embodiments, the piezoelectric film may be attachedcircumferentially to the ciliary body by multiple attachment tabs (morethan two) in order to take advantage of the natural circumferentialcontraction and expansion of the surrounding ciliary body.

One or more lens anchors 214 may be used to stabilize the electro-activelens in the desired location. For example, a lens anchor 214 may be usedto center the electro-active lens inside of the capsule or “bag” ormembrane which formerly contained the natural crystalline lens (creatingan intracapsular IOL). Alternately, the lens anchor 214 may be attachedto the ciliary muscle directly, and thus be outside of the capsule(creating an extracapsular IOL).

Multiple lens anchors 214 may be used. For example, 3 or 4 lens anchors214 may be used. The lens anchors 214 may have different shapes,customized to the specific application.

An optional base lens 252 may provide a base refractive power using aconventional lens configuration, and may be equivalent in refractivepower to the crystalline lens when no accommodation is needed. The baselens 252 may also serve as a means of encapsulating the electro-activeelement in a hermetically sealed enclosure that consists of abiocompatible material similar to those materials currently used to makeIOLs, by way of example only, soft acrylic or solid medical-gradesilicone.

FIG. 2B displays a side view of an intraocular lens embodiment with anelectro-active lens and piezoelectric material as a power supply.Specifically, FIG. 2B illustrates the optional base lens 252 which maysurround the electro-active lens element 218 and which may provide afixed or base refractive power. In a particular embodiment, the fixed orbase refractive power may be adapted to focus the eye at near distanceswhen the electro-active element is inactive. In another embodiment, thefixed or base lens may be adapted to focus the eye at far distances whenthe electro-active element is inactive. The optional base lens 252 mayhave multiple focal points, and/or may be tinted.

Other sources of power may include: solar cells, inductive charging,conductive charging, laser, thermoelectric, and harnessing themechanical energy from blinking. The capacitor 216 (or optionally, abattery) may be recharged inductively with a pair of special glasses(spectacles) that may also remotely turn off the electro-active lenswhile the battery is being recharged. The special glasses may also beconfigured to provide vision correction while the battery is recharging.

In some embodiments, the capacitor 216 in the electro-active IOL 200 maybe charged with a special pillow that has very light gauge wires throughwhich current runs. The pillow may thus be used to charge the batteriesinside the electro-active IOL 200 at night while the patient sleeps. Anexemplary arrangement of this type is illustrated in FIG. 5 and will bediscussed in more detail below. A power conditioning circuit is used toreduce the voltage and limit the current to safe levels for low powercharging and to adjust the frequency for more efficient charging.

Alternately, the electro-active IOL may not have a capacitor 216 orbattery, but may be constantly powered conductively by an externallylocated battery, or may be constantly powered inductively by anexternally located inductively coupled power supply, or solar cell, orsolar cell coupled to a properly tuned laser, or a thermal-electricpower supply that generates electricity by dumping body heat (typically98 degrees F.) into the relatively cool ambient air (typically 70degrees F.).

FIGS. 3A and 3B display an intraocular lens system 300 having adiffractive electro-active lens element 326 and a rechargeable batteryring 324. FIG. 3A provides a front view of the diffractiveelectro-active lens element 326, said diffractive lens element can beeither electrically diffractive with circular concentric electrodes, ormechanically diffractive with etched surfaces that are activatedelectrically by controlled by index matching and mismatching. which isconnected by power connections 322 to the rechargeable battery ring 324.Lens anchors 314 may be used to stabilize and position the diffractiveelectro-active lens element 326 in the desired location and orientation.The rechargeable battery ring 324 may be powered with a capacitorsimilar to that of intraocular lens system 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B.Further, the rechargeable battery 324 may be shaped differently andlocated inside of or adjacent the lens anchor 314, and thus be movedaway from the optical elements.

FIG. 3B displays a side view of the intraocular lens 300. Specifically,FIG. 3B illustrates an optional base lens 352, which is similar to thebase lens 252 of the intraocular lens system 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B.This base lens 352 may have a base or fixed optical power, or may haveno optical power and merely serve as a protective capsule or substrate.

FIGS. 4A and 4B display an intraocular lens system 400 having apixelated electro-active lens element 430 and a rechargeable batteryring 424. FIG. 4A shows a front view of the pixelated electro-activelens element 430, which is connected by power connections 422 to therechargeable battery ring 424. Lens anchors 414 may be used to stabilizeand position the diffractive electro-active lens element 430 in thedesired location and orientation. The rechargeable battery ring 424 maybe powered in the same ways as capacitor 216 from FIG. 2.

FIG. 4B displays a side view of the intraocular lens 400 showing thebase lens 452, which is similar to the base lenses of the previousembodiments.

FIG. 5 displays an external power supply 500 for use in charging theinternal power supply of IOLs according to some embodiments of theinventions. In the power supply 500, a power conditioner 532 iselectrically connected to a wall outlet 530. The power conditioner 532is connected to light gauge wire induction coils 534 inside of a pillow536 for inductively charging a capacitor or battery of a rechargeableelectro-active IOL. The power conditioner 532 may be configured toreduce the voltage and limit the current to safe levels for low powercharging and to adjust the frequency for more efficient charging. Thepower supply 500 may be configured so that the electro-active IOL may becharged while a subject rests his head on or near the pillow 536. Itwill be understood that the induction coils 534 may alternatively beplaced in a subject's bedding or in a headrest, seatback or otherlocation that can be in close proximity to a subjects head for asufficient period of time.

FIG. 6 displays an intraocular lens assembly 600 with an electro-activelens element 618, a control chip 640 and an antenna 622 for use with awireless programming unit 660. The wireless programming unit 660 isconfigured to communicate with the control chip 640 through radio waves.The radio waves are picked up by the mini antenna 642 which communicateswith the control chip 640. The control chip 640 may be remotely tunedthrough the use of these radio waves. Such tuning may include setting oradjusting the optical characteristics of the electro-active lens element618. The control chip 640 controls the electro-active lens element 618,and may have bi-directional communication with the wireless programmingunit 660. For example, the control chip 640 may be configured to alertthe wireless programming unit 660 that the battery 624 voltage is low.Alternately, programming communication with the control chip 640 may bethrough a laser (light waves), instead of through radio waves.

The electro-active lens element 618 may be connected by powerconnections 622 to a rechargeable battery ring 624 or a capacitor (notshown), and may be charged by induction coils or by piezoelectricelements as in previously described embodiments.

In some embodiments, the correction provided by the electro-active IOLmay vary depending upon the needs of the patient and the desiredresults. In some embodiments the electro-active element may only providecorrection for presbyopia. In some embodiments, the electro-active IOLmay provide remote fine tuned conventional correction. In someembodiments, the electro-active IOL may provide higher order(non-conventional) aberration corrections, by way of example only, coma,spherical aberration, trefoil, and other higher order aberrations. Insome embodiments the electro-active element may also adjust the positionof the image on the retina, by way of creating a prismatic shift of theimage electronically. When correcting for higher orders aberrations andor correcting a prismatic shift of where the image is located on theretina, the electro-active IOL may utilize a plurality of pixels. Aprismatic shift of the image is very useful in patients havingconditions, by way of example only, macula degeneration of the retina(which may include alterations in color due to disease or specificdegeneration of the macula lutea), macula holes, retinal tears, andneurological abnormalities that cause scotomas or a loss of vision inparticular segments of the visual pathway (such as blind or dark spotsin the field of vision, and blurred vision). It should be pointed outthat in each of the use embodiments above the inventive electro-activeIOL can be tuned remotely post surgery to effect the optimized effectdesired.

FIG. 7A illustrates an image of a healthy retina with a healthy fovea720 and healthy macula 710. FIG. 7B illustrates an area of the macula730 that has been damaged by “wet” macular degeneration, usually causedby bleeding from behind the retina that moves across membrane of theretina. FIG. 7C illustrates an area of the macula 740 that has beendamaged by “dry” macula degeneration, which is caused by the build-up ofdrusen on the retina in the area of the macula. By moving the image toanother location on the retina, vision can be improved for peoplesuffering from macular degeneration. An image location change of 0.25 mmto 3.00 mm may make a major improvement in one's vision in the case of adiseased or damaged macula or retina. The preferred range is 0.50 mm to2.00 mm.

FIG. 8 illustrates the effects of diabetic retinopathy on the eye.Again, by redirecting the image on the retina with a prismatic IOL, someof the visual clarity effects of this disease may be mitigated.

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates an embodiment whereby electro-activelenses with linear electrodes may be stacked to produce any combinationof vertical and horizontal displacement of an image on the retina. Thefirst lens 910 has horizontal electrodes used to produce verticalprismatic power. The second lens 920 has vertical electrodes used toproduce horizontal prismatic power. The combined lens 930 would be ableto produce a combination of vertical and horizontal image displacement.By changing the voltages on each electrode and invoking a techniqueknown as phase-wrapping, a variety of prismatic powers may be producedby such a lens. Also, multiple lenses may be stacked to produce largervalues of prismatic power. The amount of prismatic power required andthe resulting amount of image shift will vary depending upon the extentof the disease. A preferred range of image movement is between 0.1 mmand 3.0 mm, with a preferred range of 0.5 mm to 2.0 mm.

FIG. 10 illustrates an electro-active IOL in optical communication witha non-electro-active accommodative IOL. Element 1010 is anelectro-active lens that is in optical communication withnon-electro-active accommodative IOL element 1020. Note that elements1010 and 1020 are in optical series, but they are not physicallytouching each other.

While much consideration has been given to powering an electro-activelens, some electro-active materials retain their optical power in theabsence of applied electricity (such as by way of example only, abi-stable liquid crystal). Using these type of electro-active materials,the prismatic power, an additive or subtractive power that is additiveor subtractive to the base optical power of the IOL, and/or the higherorder corrections could be set while the device is being powered, andthen would remain set after the power is removed. This may negate theneed for recharging the power source in the IOL. If the patient's visionchanges and requires new correction, he could return to the eye-careprofessional and have the IOL adjusted to a new combination of prismaticand/or higher order correction. The changes could be externally poweredremotely. For example, the external power may be RF energy similar tothe way RFID tags work today, where the reading device provides thepower to the RFID tag inductively so that the RFID can transmit it'sinformation to the RFID reader.

In same manner as the RFID tags, a tuning instrument for changing theIOL power could provide power to the controller on the electro-activeIOL, so that the controller could change the voltages on the electrodesof the IOL thus setting the localized index of refraction thatdetermines the optical properties of the electro-active IOL.

Alternately, the power may also be supplied optically by shining abright light or eye-safe laser into the eye and onto a photocell builtinto the electro-active IOL that would then provide the temporaryelectrical power needed to adjust the optical power of theelectro-active IOL. This system may also be used for communication, inaddition to supplying power.

Bi-stable twisted nematic, cholesteric and ferroelectric liquid crystalshave been used in flexible low cost LCD displays, and similar materialsmay be used in the electro-active elements of an IOL. This type ofelectrically adjusted (but otherwise non-powered) prismatic adjustment,additive or subtractive, for retinal disease tuning or higher orderaberration correction may be added to (i.e., placed in optical serieswith) any accommodative non electro-active IOL that corrects forpresbyopia. For example, electro-active elements could be placed inoptical series with non-electrical or non-powered IOLs, such as nonelectro-active IOLs that mechanically change their optical power bychanging one or more surface curvatures and/or the position of the IOLin the eye.

The addition of the electro-active lens or electro-active elements maybe accomplished in at least three ways: first, a separate electro-activeIOL may be placed in non-touching optical communication (optical series)with the non-electro-active accommodating IOL; second, an electro-activeelement can be built into one of the IOL's surfaces that does not changecontour during accommodation; and third, an electro-active element maybe placed inside of a layered non-electro-active.

For example, an electro-active element could be added in the anteriorchamber and used in optical series with an individual's functioningcrystalline lens. In this case, the crystalline lens will providenatural accommodation, and the electro-active IOL may steer the image toa healthier part of the retina, or may tune the non-electroactive IOL,or may correct for higher order aberration.

As noted above, in some embodiments, it may be a major advantage to tuneor adjust the electro-active IOL remotely. After inserting theelectro-active IOL in the eye, the optical power and the prismatic powercan be fine-tuned remotely to accomplish the optimal vision correctionto correct for conventional refractive error, or higher orderaberrations, or the precise location of the image on the retina.Further, the IOL could be tuned again at a later date to compensate forchanges in the eye over time, due to disease or aging. In cases ofcorrecting solely for conventional refractive error, the electro-activeIOL could either utilize diffraction or pixelation or both. Theelectro-active element may also perform any number of these functions incombination, as required by the patient's conditions and at thediscretion of the eye care professional.

Shown in FIG. 11 is a diagram of the invention showing a pair ofeyeglasses which can be mechanically and electrically coupled to anelectronic lens feature, by way of example only, an electro-chromiclens, electro-active lens, microoptical display or heads-up displayaffixed to a spectacle lens or frame. The invention is designed in sucha way that the electrical power source, by way of example only, batteryor miniature fuel cell, in certain embodiments is stored in a pocket orenclosure that is connected to a tether, cord, chain or Croakie, whichis then connected to the eyeglasses. In other embodiments of theinvention the accessory or feature is connected to the tether, cord,chain or Croakie, but no pocket or enclosure is utilized.

The invention improves upon the conventional eye glass chord, chain orCroakie by modifying it to allow for not only being uses as a means ofsecuring the eye glass frames to ones head, but in addition to providefor a means away from the eye glass frame to house or support the powersource, and of course electrical connections. The invention furtherprovides for off loading certain electrical accessories and featuresfrom the eyeglass frame, as well as the electrical connections to bedetachable and re-attachable to the eyeglass frame in a very convenientand user-friendly manner. In one application of the invention,electrical connections are provided within the temple pieces of theglasses that allow the electrical signal (digital or analog) to travelto the lens by way of electrical conductors located internally in theframe. In another inventive embodiment, the electrical connectors arelocated on the outer surface of the temple and applied, by way ofexample only, with an adhesive film. In this case, the connectors arebuilt into the film and then the film is affixed to the temple ortemples. In still other cases, the connectors are applied directly tothe frame and then covered by the adhesive film, which then connects tothe lens.

The invention shown in the figure provides an electronic enabling tetherthat contains a power source such that it can be securely hung from therear of the frame temples and be allowed to extend down to the wearer'supper back, just below the neck. The power source, in some embodiments,can be further secured to the wearer's back by: locating it under theshirt, using, by way of example only, an adhesive patch, Velcroapplicator, snap, or clamp to adhere the unit to the wearer's back orshirt. Securing in this way prevents the unit from flopping around whilethe wearer is walking, jogging or engaged in some other athleticexercise or active work. When the invention is affixed to either one'sbody or shirt it should have enough length to allow the wearer to bendtheir head down at the neck without unduly tightening or pulling tautlyon the audio unit. In most cases the power source is small andlightweight enough to be confined solely within the inventive tether.Therefore, it is not necessary to affix the enabling tether to one'sbody or shirt, etc.

In certain embodiments, elastic or rubber fittings are used to securethe inventive electronic enabling tether to the temple or temples. Theseembodiments may allow for a notch or grove to be placed or built intothe temple. In certain other embodiments, the end of the temple ortemples provides for a circular fastener, which may or may not beconductive, to which the invention is secured using, by way of exampleonly, a clip.

The inventive electronic enabling tether is connected mechanically andelectrically to the frames in a removable fashion. The inventiveelectronic enabling tether in certain embodiments utilizes a magnetconnecting means. In other embodiments, no magnet is used. One suchembodiment where a magnetic connector is used allows for the tether tobe separated at some point near the mid-line of the tether for easyremoval. In other embodiments, the tether is magnetically connected tothe temple by way of a magnet attraction/receiving member that is builtinto the temple connection device, such as by way of example only, anelastic, plastic, or metal fastener that connects the tether to thetemple or eyewear frame. In certain cases where power is being suppliedto the eyewear, the magnetic connection device also serves as anelectrical conductor to provide the electrical connection from theinventive tether to the eyewear (lenses and/or frame). The power sourcecontained within the electronic tether can be either rechargeable ornon-rechargeable, in which case it will need to be readily accessible orremovable within the tether to be changed from time to time.

The spectacle lenses can be constructed to contain a micro-opticaldisplay that is visible to the wearer, located in a fixed space in sucha manner as to not obstruct the central vision area of the leases. Inthis version, an audio unit is replaced or enhanced by additionalelectronic capability to supply video or informational data. Forexample, if the unit contained a cell phone or PDA, emails can betransmitted to the micro-optical display or telephone calls can betransmitted to earphones. In this second function, a microphone wouldhave to be added into the spectacle frames near the nose bridge to allowfor two-way communication. The inventive electronic enabling tetherprovides the needed power and the potential offloading capability fromthe eyewear of items that need to be electronically connected but do notneed to reside on the eyeglass frame or lenses.

Thus, the invention contained herein solves a pressing and growing needof enabling electronic frames in a manner that allows for theproliferation of various electronic applications that are now beingapplied to eye wear. It does this while preserving the fashionaesthetics, comfort and ergonomics of the electronic eyeglasses ascompared to the current popular conventional non-electronic eyeglasses.

When reading about the inventive embodiments disclosed herein, it shouldbe pointed out that the words “stem or temple” have the same meaning inwhat is disclosed herein as do the words clip-on and snap-on. A clip-oncan be either monocular (attaching to one eyewire or one half of theframe front) or binocular (attaching to both eyewires or the completeframe front). Further, the electronic tether can be affixed to hingedtemples, hinge-less temples, the frame front, or for that matteranywhere on the eyewear. The term eyewear is meant to be interpretedbroadly, and may include one or more of a frame, lens, tether, and/orclip-on. The tether is considered an electronic tether when anelectrical connection is affixed to it or travels within it. A temple isconsidered to be an electronic temple if an electrical connection isaffixed to it or travels through it. A frame is considered to be anelectronic frame if an electrical connection is affixed to it or travelsthrough it. A lens is referred to as an electronic lens when electricityaffects the lens' optical power or tint. A lens can be that of afixed/static lens or a dynamic focusing electronic lens. The word tetherincludes that of a Croakie, chord, chain, and connecting attachment fromone temple to another. Clip-ons can be that of electronic when anelectrical connection is associated with the clip-on or non-electronicwhen no electrical connection is associated with the clip-on. Tints canbe that of an electro-chromic tint, a photochromic tint, or a fixedimbedded tint.

In FIG. 11, one embodiment of the present invention is shown. A pair ofspectacles 1100 is shown with a frame 1110; attached to the frames is atether 1120, which connects to the frame near the rear of the stems1180, 1181. A cross-sectional view through the center of the stem center1150 shows two conductors 1160, 1161 running through the frame stems ortemples to provide electrical power from the power source inside theenclosure 1130 to the electronic controllers 1170, 1171 located on eachlens 1140, 1141. The details of attachment will be addressed insubsequent drawings. It should be pointed out that the enclosures can bemade from any number of materials including but not limited to cloth,fabrics, plastic, or even foam rubber. In the case of cloth or fabric,the access to the power source inside the enclosure may be via a Velcro™strip cover. Such access or pockets are well known in the art. In thecase of plastic, the enclosure may be done with a sliding door.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention wherethe enclosure 1230 now contains both a power source and an electroniccontroller designed to control a pair of lenses. In such cases,depending on the type of electrically activated lenses being used,multiple electrical conductors 1260 will need to be run through thetether and through the frame stems as shown in the detailed section ofFIG. 12.

FIG. 13 illustrates yet another embodiment where by the controller/powersource in the enclosure 1230 is connected to the frame with an adhesivestrip or conformal film 1310, 1310 on each side of the frame 1110. Thedetail in FIG. 13 illustrates two conductors 1360, 1361 running insidethe film 1310 to provide power to the controllers 1170, 1171 on thelenses 1140, 1141. In this embodiment almost any frame may be used toprovide power to the electro-active lenses.

FIG. 13 also illustrates how the two conductors may make contact withthe controller on the lens. In this case, small holes are drilled nearthe contact points for the controller power on the lens. The wires arethen placed in each hole and secured with as electrically conductiveadhesive, such as, by way of example only, epoxy or acrylic filled withsilver or other metallic flakes or powder. Such conductive adhesives arewell known in the art. The wires are strain-relieved by virtue of theadhesion of the strip to the frame stem or temple (not shown in FIG. 13for clarity of electrical attachment details).

FIG. 14 illustrates yet another embodiment where by the controller/powersource in the enclosure 1430 is connected directly to the frame temples1440, 1441 to provide power to the controllers 1170, 1171 on the lenses1140, 1141. In this embodiment the tether 1420 may need to be longer.This embodiment may be totally frame-independent and may be preferablefor female wearers.

FIG. 15 illustrates the details of the enclosure described above wherethe enclosure 1510 includes a power source or battery 1530. A slidingdoor 1520 allows for access into the enclosure for changing the powersource. Electrical conductors 1540, 1541, 1542, 1543 provide power tothe lenses through the tethers 1570, 1571. The tethers are secured tothe housing of the enclosure with strain reliefs 1560, 1561 so that anytension in the tether is applied to the outer covering of the tether andnot the conductors inside the tether. The power source is connected toterminal blocks 1550, 1551 that make connection to the four conductors.Finally, a clip 1580 is attached to the enclosure to secure theenclosure to a part of the clothing such as the collar of a shirt. Manytypes of power enclosures for small electronic devices are known in theart, and while the inventor has illustrated an example herein, otherdesigns are anticipated and would be considered within the scope of thepresent invention. It should be pointed out that the enclosures can bemade from any number of materials including but not limited to cloth,fabrics, plastic, or even foam rubber. In the case of cloth or fabricthe access to the power source inside the enclosure may be via a Velcro™strip cover.

FIG. 16 illustrates the details of the enclosure described above wherethe enclosure 1610 includes both a power supply 1620 and a controller orcontrol circuit 1640. The power supply 1620 provides power to thecontroller 1640 via two conductors 1630, 1631. The controller thenprovides drive signals to the lenses via multiple conductor bundles1650, 1651 that reside inside the tether sleeves 1660, 1661. The numberof conductors in each bundle will depend on specific requirements forthe particular type of electrically activated lenses that are placed inthe frame.

FIG. 17 illustrates one embodiment for attaching the tether to theframe. In this case an elastic member 1705 slides into a groove notchedin the frame stem. Each side of the groove is connected to thecontroller 1710 via small wires 1720, 1721. The sides of the grooves areisolated from one another with an insulator or gap (not shown). Thetether 1750 contains the two conductors 1740, 1741 coming from the powersource, and on each side of the tether a contact point 1730 is placed toestablish electrical contact to each side of the grove. By shaping thetether such that its cross section is roughly triangular, properpolarity can be maintained upon connection. Further, the rubber natureof the elastic member and tether sleeve can act as a strain relief andavoid damage to the conductors inside the tether.

FIG. 18 illustrates a connection mechanism utilizing magneticattraction. In this case the controller 1810 is electrically connectedto two contact points 1820, 1821 via ultra thin wires or ITO buses. Thecontact points are surrounded by a tiny steel plate (or other materialhaving good magnetic properties) 1830 with small cut-outs to avoidshorting out the two contact points. Meanwhile; the tether 1860 has asmall but powerful magnetic plate 1840 attached to its ends. Within themagnetic plate are two holes that contain contact points 1850, 1851 tothe two conductors within the tether. In this manner the attraction ofthe steel plate to the magnetic plate force both a physical and anelectrical connection from the tether to the lenses. The front side ofthe magnetic plate can be painted or coated with a finish that issimilar to the frame finish so that the connection is cosmeticallyacceptable to consumers. While this type of connection has been shown atthe lens surface, a similar connection can be made at any point on thetether if so desired. It should also be pointed out that this inventiveconnection can also be located on the surface of the frame as opposed tothat of the lens, in which case a further connection would be made tothe lens. Moreover, while the shape was illustrated as a rectangle,other geometries could be used where appropriate and would be consideredwithin the scope of the present invention. Also, the magnetic connectioncould be used exclusively as a mechanical connection to a tether asopposed to one that always provides electrical connectivity.

FIG. 19 illustrates an attachment design whereby the temple containsconductive wiring and is designed for a rimless mounting of the lenses.In this case the controller 1910 has contact points 1920, 1921 that aresemicircular and are located about the location for a through hole 1930that will be drilled through the lens as part of the mounting process.The frame temple 1940 has a loop with two conductive contact rings 1950,1951 that attach to each of the two conductive wires 1970, 1971 withinthe frame temple. Finally, a screw 1960 can be used to hold the lens tothe temple 1980 of a rimless/hingeless frame made from high strengthmetals such as titanium (which is widely used in the fabrication ofhingeless frame), while establishing the electrical connection. Eitherthe hole in the lens can be tapped with threads or a small bolt (notshown) can be placed on the back of the lens for fastening. In the caseof this embodiment, it is possible to conduct electricity over the fullor partial length of the temple to the lens without having anyconnections at or through the frame hinges, as no hinges are needed.

FIG. 20 illustrates attachment of the tether using a clamp. Again, thecontroller 2010 has contact points on the lens 2020, 2021 near a flange2030 on the outer perimeter of the frame. The tether 2060 has a clamp2040 (in this case a v-shaped clamp) that contains two conductivecontact points 2050, 2051 for providing power to the lens once thetether is in place. Additionally, a tilt switch 2080 may be used tobreak the electrical connection from one of the two conductive wires2070, 2071 as part of a control mechanism for electro-active lenses usedfor, by way of example only, correcting presbyopia.

FIG. 21 illustrates a magnetic connection to the frame temple or framestem. In this case electrical contact points 2120, 2121, within themagnetic tab 2130 on the tether 1120 make electrical contact to the twobus bars 2150, 2151 on the frame stem 2140. Two insulated bus bars onthe frame stem may be used to prevent shorting of the power source whenmaking contacts.

FIGS. 22A-22D illustrate yet another embodiment where the spectacles maybe powered and controlled. In FIG. 22A, a power supply and/or controller2210 is connected to a pair of spectacles via two connection points2220, 2221 on the frame stems 2240, 2241 to cables or tethers 2230, 2231running from the power supply/controller. The details in FIG. 22Billustrate a combination of pins 2260 and holes or receptacles 2261 inaddition to magnetic contacts 2263, 2264. The side view in FIG. 22Cillustrates the conductors 2267, 2268 within the tether 2231 or 2230coming from one side of the connection point with pins, and conductors2265, 2266 within the frame stems 2240, 2241 with receptacles 2261. FIG.22D shows, as added mechanical security, a rubber flap 2280 with anexpandable small slit or hole is mounted to the tether 2230, 2231 andslides over a pin 2290 mounted on the frame stems 2240, 2241.

FIG. 23A illustrates another embodiment. In this case a visor 2310 isadded to a pair of sports goggles with an optical display viewer 2250,where said viewer is used to display important information to theindividual n training, in this case, the pace, the heart rate, and thedistance left in the race. This allows the runner to check his criticalinformation without having to break stride to look at a wrist-worndevice as is normally done today. The controller may also include asmall camera 2360, which would allow the user to view what is behindthem in the optical display viewer 2250. FIG. 23B illustrates theembodiment of FIG. 23A as a clip-on device. Here the clip-on 2380includes the micro-optical display that is powered and fed data viaattachment to the frame 2370. Attachment may be via any of the methodsdescribed herein.

FIGS. 24A-24F illustrate embodiments where any electronic lens, by wayof example only, an optically variable and/or focusing lens as is thecase of an electro-active, electro-fluid, electro-pressure,electro-mechanically moving lens system, and also that of anelectro-chromic tinted lens, etc.) may be snapped over or clipped ontothe front of a conventional pair of lenses 2430 that may contain thepatient's conventional distance Rx. This can be accomplished by eitheraffixing the electronic clip-ons to the lenses 2430 or to the frames2420. Since the distance Rx will take into consideration any astigmaticcorrection, the placement of the electronic lens, such as by exampleonly, an electro-active focusing optic, can be more forgiving regardingits orientation within the frame. Such an electro-active lens isdescribed in the following patents U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,391, U.S. Pat.No. 6,491,394, U.S. Pat. No. 6,517,203, U.S. Pat. No. 6,619,799, U.S.Pat. No. 6,733,130 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,857,741. Moreover, this wouldgreatly reduce the complexity of providing electro-active focusingcorrection where both the distance and near correction are required.

By decoupling the fixed lens from the electro-active lens, anelectro-active focusing lens product could be offered with far fewerSKUs. In fact, the invention anticipates having a limited line ofelectro-active focusing electronic clip-ons that have presetdecentrations. By way of example only, the electronic clip-ons could beavailable with near vision inter-pupillary measurements of 63 mm, 60 mmand 57 mm, as shown in FIGS. 24D, 24E, and 24F, respectively. The properclip-on would be selected depending upon the patient's near visioninter-pupillary measurement. Until the electro-active lenses areactivated by electricity, there is no near optical power and therefore,the base conventional lens 2430 contained within the eye glass frames2420 provides the patient's distance vision/inter-pupillary measurementset within the eyewear 2420 and functions properly for distance vision.However, when the electronic clip-ons now become activated, theelectro-active lenses focus for intermediate or near vision. Theresulting inter-pupillary measurement then becomes the selectedelectronic clip-on having a preset inter-pupillary measurement. In thismanner the optician may order the appropriate decentration for theoptics within the electronic clip-on based on his measurement of thepatient's inter-pupillary distance.

While the above discussion was directed to electro-active focusing nearand intermediate lenses, it should be pointed out that the inventioncontemplates electro-active lenses that are full or partial pixilatedlens(es), full or partial diffractive lens(es) or a combination of both.In addition, the invention contemplates the electronic clip-ons orelectronic snap-ons that house an electroactive lens or lenses thatcorrects for only higher order aberrations. The electronic clip-on orelectronic-snap on would be used to allow the patient to see better than20/20, perhaps better than 20/10 by correcting his or her higher orderaberrations. In this case, the inter-pupillary measurement would be setfor one's distance vision needs. This proper inter-pupillary measurementwould be properly established by way of the location of the higher orderaberration correction location within each clip-on lens. It should bepointed out that in this inventive embodiment the clip-on correcting thepatient's higher order aberration(s) can be that of either a fixedstatic non-electronic lens or that of an electronic pixelated lens.

The power source and/or controller 2450 is attached to the electrifiableframe temple 2410 in any of the manners described herein. The electronicsnap-on or electronic clip-on device 2460 containing the electro-activeelements 2470 is slightly over-sized to that of frame 2420 so that theside of the conventional lens is covered from view by a person lookingat the side of the frame. FIG. 24B illustrates the snap-on device 2460in place over the frame with at least one electrical contact 2490 beingmade from the frame to the electro-active element 2470 within thesnap-on device 2460. The connection to the frame may also be done withmagnets. These magnets can be contained within the frame 2420 and/or inthe electronic clip-on 2460. The magnets can be positioned to attach theelectronic clip-on 2460 to the frame 2420 either at the top, bottom,front, middle, sides or any place on the frame 2420 or the electronicclip-on 2460.

FIGS. 24C-24D further illustrate the inventive embodiment of using anelectronic clip-on that attaches to an electronic conducting frame topower electro-active lenses 2488 and 2489. A pair of spectacles 2481designed to be used with a pair of electronic clip-on lenses 2485 isshown. In this case, the electronic frame may include a power source2482 located anywhere on the electronic frame.

Connection points 2483, 2484 that are either mechanical of magnetic arelocated on the electronic frame 2481. The electronic clip-on lenses 2485also include connection points 2486 and 2487 similar to the ones on theelectronic frame. The electronic clip-on lenses may includeelectro-active lenses 2488, 2489 for electronic focusing to supplementthe focusing power of the fixed lenses 2495, 2496 located in theelectronic frame 2481. In other inventive embodiments, the electroniclenses may be electrochromic lenses that create a variable,electronically-controlled tint or a combination of an electro-chromictint and electro-active focusing lenses to either correction higherorder aberrations, provide presbyopia correction, or focus forconventional needs, for that matter.

The details in FIG. 24G illustrate two possible electrical connectionsusing magnetic physical attachment means. In one case a single magnet2490 is placed in the connection point and a positive 2491 and anegative 2492 electrical terminal connection are placed inside themagnet 2490. The same configuration would be used on both the electronicframe 2481 and electronic clip-on lenses 2485. Alternatively, since mostmagnetic material can also be electrically conductive, the physicalconnection can be done with a split magnet, where one half-of the magnet2493 forms the positive electrical terminal 2493 and the other half 2494forms the negative electrical terminal. In this case, the half-magnetswould need to be electrically insulated from each other. While FIGS.24A-24G illustrate what amount to essentially temporary attachment ofelectrically activated lenses, the electronic clip-ons could bepermanently affixed to the frame by any number of methods includingadhesive bonding, for example.

FIG. 25 illustrates an inventive electronic chain 2510 that could beworn by women in association with electronic reading glasses. In thiscase, in addition to loops 2520 and 2521 to connect the chain to theframe, this chain has multiple decorative beads 2540 thru 2547, any ofwhich may comprise a power source for powering an electro-activespectacle. The shape and design of the decorative beads or jewelry issuch to hide the power source that is contained within. Magnets 2530,2531 may be used to establish electrical connection as describedearlier, or other mechanical connections as described herein may also beemployed.

FIG. 26 illustrates an electronic chain with a pair of electronicreading glasses 2260 that may include electro-active lens functions. Theelectronic reading glasses in this case may be worn behind the head 2610when not in use. In this inventive embodiment a power source/controller2630 designed to look like a decorative locket or any other piece ofjewelry may be placed in front of the wearer 2640 when the glasses arenot required. In this manner the wearer can have a decorative necklacewhen reading glasses are not required. Further, if the reading glasseshave electrical functionality, then the power and/or control isavailable.

FIGS. 27A-27D illustrate embodiments whereby small earplug speakers 2730and 2731 are connected to an electrical tether containing audio signalsfrom a music player or other audio device 2710 via slides 2720 and 2721.Details in FIGS. 27B and 27C illustrate alternative center attachmentsto those-currently used in the art. FIG. 27D illustrates a chargershaped like a human nose, that can be used to charge the battery for thecontroller stored in the enclosure on the tether. By plugging both oreither end of center connections into the nose shaped charger thebattery can be recharged. This would eliminate the need for chargingelectronics in the controller that is worn behind the neck. It should bepointed out that the invention contemplates the audio device 2710 beingthat of, by way of example only, an Apple iPod®, MP3 player, AudioCassette, Satellite Radio, conventional radio, pager, cell phonetransceiver, micro-DVD or digital video file player, video transceiver,etc.

FIGS. 28A-28C illustrate alternative inventive methods of breaking theconnection in the device described in FIG. 27. In this case theconnection is done on one side of the electronic spectacle frame witheither magnets 2820 as shown in FIG. 28B, or with a pin 2840 and areceptacle 2830 as shown in FIG. 28C.

FIGS. 29A and 29B illustrate additional attachment embodiments. In FIG.29A, a single connection point is made with a pin on one side of thefront of the spectacles. In this case, it can be on the front, back,side, top, or bottom. However as shown in FIG. 29A, the preferredattachment in this embodiment is on the bottom of the electroniceyewear. In FIG. 29B the electronic frame is shown where connectionslike the ones illustrated in FIGS. 28A-28C and 29A may be made on bothsides of the front of the spectacles.

FIG. 30A illustrates further embodiments similar to that described inFIG. 27, whereby the connection point 2950 is in the back of the deviceas opposed to the bridge of the spectacles. It should be pointed outthat in each of these cases of FIGS. 27A-27D, 28A-28C, 29A, 29B, and30A, the manner in which the electronic connection is made can allow forcharging, and can allow for an easy manner of putting on and taking offthe inventive electronic eyewear disclosed herein.

FIG. 30B illustrates an embodiment whereby a housing 3010 is used tostore extra audio cable 3030 for the earplug 3020 on a spring loadedspool 3040. In this manner the length of the audio cable can be adjustedfor different users. Moreover, this would also allow the wearer to stilluse the audio features of the invention while not wearing theirelectronic eyewear on their face, for example, when they are justletting the electronic eyewear hang over their neck.

FIG. 31 illustrates an inventive embodiment whereby power and/or audiosignals may be sent down the inside wall of an electronic frame stem ortemple 3100. Two electronic conductive buses or wires 3110 and 3120 runalong the inside wall of the electronic frame stem or temple 3100. Amagnetic or metal strip capable of magnetic attraction 3120 runs downbetween the two buses. In this manner, power or audio can be provided toa device connected to the electronic frame stem or temple. As analternative to magnetic connection, a track system similar to tracklighting may also be used to secure attached devices to the electronicframe stem or temple. This method of electrical connection andmechanical connection may also be used on the electronic chains andelectronic tethers described in the present invention.

FIG. 32 illustrates an inventive embodiment where a small fan 3210 isplaced in the bridge 3220 of an electronic frame to blow cool air overthe inside surfaces of the lenses 3231 and 3230 to prevent foggingduring sports activities. To date most efforts to mitigate fogging havebe marginal. While there are antifogging solutions that can be appliedto the lens surface, depending upon the level of activity, the fit ofthe eyewear, and the ambient temperature when the glasses are worn,lenses still fog and thus create visual problems for wearers. Sinceelectrical power will be available with the present inventive eyeweardescribed herein, an electrically powered fan would solve the foggingproblem very effectively. In this case the air flow is directed by thedesign of the frames bridge to flow to the fog affected areas of thelens. In most cases this area is the most nasal, inside, sections of thelens. The invention anticipates external deflectors and internalchannels that direct the air from the fan. Alternatively transparentconductive heating elements fashioned from a transparent conductivelayer, such as, by way of example only, ITO or conductive polymer, maybe placed in the lens and could be used to drive fog off the lenses inconditions where fogging is likely to occur.

FIG. 33 illustrates a self-contained electronic clip-on or electronicsnap-on that may be used in spectacles or sports goggles. In thisinventive embodiment the electronic clip-on would include a powersupply. Controller 3310 is in the center portion of the clip 3320 forcontrolling and powering the electro-active elements 3331 and 3330. Inthis inventive embodiment, the self-contained electronic clip-on can beused not only to power the electronic lenses contained within theelectronic clip-on but also that of other electronic features containedwithin the electronic frames or the inventive self contained electronicclip-on can be used to solely power the electronic lenses, by way ofexample only, electro-active focusing lenses or electro-chromic lensesthat are housed within the electronic clip-on.

It should be pointed out that nearly all the inventive embodimentsdescribed herein can be made to work with rimmed frames, rimless frames,hinged temples, and hingeless temples. Also, the present inventiondescribed herein could also be used with Clic Goggles™ that utilizenon-electronic eyewear that joins together at the frame bridge to form aframe from two separate eyewear pieces that are connected by way of atether in the back. This tether secures the Clic Goggle™ eyewear to oneshead after the two eyepieces are attached at the bridge. Additionally,the present invention includes electronic and non-electronic connectionsmade by magnetic means, mechanical means, utilizing pins and frictionfits and other physical connection techniques, including the combinationof magnetic and mechanical connections.

FIG. 34 illustrates an inventive embodiment whereby a pair of spectacles3400 similar to the branded Clic™ spectacles is redesigned to providepower to electronic lenses, by way of example only, electro-chromicsunglasses, electroactive focusing lenses, or electro-activesuper-vision lenses that correct for higher order aberrations. In thisembodiment, a power source, by way of example only, a battery, fuelcell, solar panel) is placed in an enclosure 3410 that is attached tothe back portion of the electronic frame tether 3430. The power can beturned on or off with a small switch 3420 on the enclosure. Two pairs ofconductors 3440 and 3441 extend from the power source inside theenclosure 3410 to provide power to whatever type of electronic lens isplaced in the front portion of the electronic frame 3431.

The electronic stem or temple on the front portion of the electronicframe 3431 is sized to fit into the stem on the back portion of theelectronic frame tether 3430. In the Clic™ product, the stems or templeson the front portion of the frame are solid plastic. In the presentinvention, these stems or temples become electrical stems or temples andneed to be either hollow to allow for the conductors 3440 and 3441 to beextended down to the lenses, or electronic connections can be applied tothe external surface of the stems or temples as taught in FIG. 13.

The conductive pairs may be as long as the fully extended length of theelectronic frame stems or temples and may be flexible so that they donot break or crack when the front stems are pushed all the way into theback electronic frame stems or temples. A similar set of mechanicallocks (not shown) can be placed in the electronic frame stems or templesto hold the position of the front frame stems or temple sections to thatof the back frame stems or temples sections. The present invention mayjoin together at the bridge of the nose with any number of methodsdescribed herein, including magnets 3450 and 3451.

Utilizing the inventive embodiment allows for a continuous end-to-endelectrical circuit that is never disconnected when the electroniceyewear is taken off and decoupled. In this inventive embodiment, theelectrical connection to either the speakers, the electronic lenses orthe electronic clip-ons remains intact. When utilizing a product wherethe connection is in the front eyewear bridge, two monocular electronicclip-ons may be used. In this case, each monocular electronic clip-on isapplied separately so that it is possible to decouple the eyewear in thebridge without having to take off the clip-on first. However in stillother embodiments, a one piece binocular electronic clip-on is used andwhen this occurs the binocular clip-on may be removed prior todecoupling the eyewear.

FIG. 35 illustrates yet another inventive embodiment whereby anelectronic device 3510 is placed on the back portion of the electronicframe tether 3430. Types of devices that may be placed on the back ofthe electronic frame tether include, by way of example only, an MP3player like the Apple iPod®, a small terrestrial radio, a smallsatellite radio, or a small cell phone or paging device. Small buttons3530, 3531 and 3532 may be placed on the outside of the electronicdevice to control it. For example, one button might change the volume ofthe sound sent to each earplugs 3520 and 3521 attached to the electronicdevice through the electronic frame stems or temples. Other buttonscould be used to change the track that is being played on an audiodevice. Any number of functions may be addressed via numerous buttonsplaced on the outside of the electronic device 3510. In the case wherethe small electronic device is a cell phone, the earplugs could befitted with microphones (not shown) to allow the user to send talk intothe cell phone. In-ear, microphones are well known in the cell phoneaccessory art. Also, in the case of a cell phone, it would beadvantageous to use voice recognition to perform dialing and otherfunctions normally done on a keypad, since the cell phone will be behindthe users head in the present invention.

FIG. 36A illustrates an inventive embodiment whereby two small lights3610 and 3611 are placed near the front of the frame close to the lensesto provide reading light in dark places such as restaurants. This isparticularly important for wearers who suffer from presbyopia. Thelights would be powered by the power sources described in the discussionof FIG. 34. Attachment of the conductive pairs to the light sourcescould be done with any of the methods described above, including simplysoldering the wires to the two terminals of the light source. Lightsources may include by way of example only, small incandescent lightbulbs or LEDs (preferably white). It should be pointed out that thebattery or power source can be also placed anywhere in the electroniceyewear so long as it makes the proper electrical connection with thelight source. One preferred eyewear style utilized with the inventivelights would be that of electronic readers or reading glasses. However,this inventive application can be utilized for all kinds of electroniceyewear.

FIG. 36B illustrates a similar inventive embodiment as FIG. 36A exceptin this embodiment, the light sources 3610, 3611 are powered by smallbatteries 3690, 3691 placed in the front portion of the frame stems.

FIG. 37A illustrates an inventive electronic docking station 3710 placedon the back portion of the electronic frame tether 3720. The electronicdocking station includes at least one pair of power terminal contacts3730, and at least one audio (stereo or mono) or video connection port3740. The electronic docking station also has a charging port 3750 wherea standard charger could be connected for recharging the power sourcelocated in either the electronic docking station, or the electronicdevice 3705 that is to be placed in said electronic docking station orboth.

While the electronic docking station in this inventive embodiment waslocated on the back portion of the frame tether, the docking stationmight also be located anywhere that makes sense on the frame, forexample on the frame stem or temple. Once again it should be pointed outthat any electronic audio and/or video device can be fabricated tofunction within the electronic docking station. These could be, by wayof example only, an Apple iPod®, MP3 player, tape cassette, satelliteradio, conventional radio, pager, cell phone transceiver, microDVD orvideo file player, video transceiver, etc.

FIG. 37B illustrates a possible wiring diagram for the docking stationshown in FIG. 37A. In FIG. 37B, a shielded or unshielded wire 3770provides audio signal to the right earplug, while wire 3771 providesaudio for the left earplug. Please note that the audio ground/shieldwires were not shown for simplicity of illustration; however, propergrounding and shielding of audio signal wires is well known by thosenormally skilled in the audio art. Wires 3773 and 3774 provide power outto right lens, while wires 3775 and 3776 provide power out to the leftlens. Wires 3777 and 3778 provide connection to the power terminals 3730to the charging port 3750. In this case, power is provided by the powersource on the docked electronic device. Alternatively, power could beprovided by a power source on the docking station, which would result ina slightly different wiring arrangement.

FIG. 38 illustrates an inventive embodiment whereby the back of theelectronic frame tether 3810 forms a T shape. At the bottom of the Tshape, a connection point 3850 is available for attaching the electronicdevice 3805 to the electronic frame tether electrically andmechanically. A pouch 3840 is also attached to the bottom of the T tosupport the electronic device 3805. A strip of Velcro™ or double-sidedtape (not shown) may be placed on the front side of the pouch so thatthe pouch and the electronic device enclosed therein may be affixed tothe back of the wearer's shirt, thus removing any pull or heaviness ofthe device being hung on the electronic frame tether. Also as shown inFIGS. 15 and 16, a clip may be used to affix the pouch to the clothingbeing worn.

FIG. 39 illustrates an inventive embodiment where the electronic device3910 attached to the back of the electronic frame tether may becontrolled with a handheld remote controller 3950 that can be held inthe wearers hand. This would allow the user to control the electronicdevice without having to reach behind his or her head. This device maycommunicate via any number of known short range wireless technologiesincluding, but not limited to, blue tooth, WiFi, or 802.11 protocol. Thehand-held remote controller 3950 may include a small display 3960 toprovide information regarding the status of the electronic device on theelectronic frame tether. The communication between the hand held remotecontroller and the electronic device may be one-way or two-way dependingupon the nature of the electronic device. In the case of one-waycommunication, it is most likely that the hand-held controller wouldcontain a transmitter and the electronic device would contain only areceiver. In the case of two-way communication, both devices would haveeither a transceiver or a transmitter and a receiver.

FIG. 40 illustrates another inventive embodiment for remote controland/or communication with the electronic device 3910 placed on the backof the electronic frame tether 3920. In this case, the remote controldevice is that of an electronic wristwatch 4050 that not only acts astime-piece, but also functions as an effective means of controlling theelectronic device 3910. It would work in a similar fashion as describedabove, except it would have the added advantage of being worn on thewrist. This would be particularly important for sports goggleapplications where the wearer is likely to be a runner or a jogger. Onceagain, it should be pointed out that the device 3910 can be by way ofexample only, any audio and or video device such as an Apple I iPod®,MP3 player, cassette, satellite radio, conventional radio, pager, cellphone transceiver, micro-DVD player, etc.

FIG. 41A illustrates another embodiment for remote control and/orcommunication with the electronic camera or video camera 4110 placed onthe back of the frame tether. This case the remote control device is awristwatch 4150 that allows the wearer to snap photographs or to takevideos of whatever he or she is looking at. A fiber optic bundle 4120 inthe frame stem 4130 would pipe an image to the camera 4110 that wasfocused into the bundle by an external camera lens 4140. In this manner,a person could walk about and never need to reach into their pocket orpocket book to find their camera. It should be pointed out that thecamera lens 4140 can be located anywhere on the electronic eyewearincluding the electronic tether. Also, multiple camera lenses could beused with a still camera or a video camera. Finally, the electroniccamera or video could be utilized within the electronic clip-ondescribed earlier in this disclosure.

FIG. 41B illustrates an embodiment whereby the video or still camera4160 is located directly on the front of the frame or lens, and thevideo signal travels down a video cable or a data bus 4170 back to thecontroller for storage.

FIG. 42 shows yet another inventive embodiment of the invention. In thisinvention the electronic clip-on or snap-on 4210 houses a heads updisplay 4230. The heads up display can be that of a partial or full VGAor other available format. In the case of the preferred embodiment, apartial VGA display is utilized. In this case, when the electronicclip-on is applied to the electronic eyewear it will enable themicro-optical display housed within or on the electronic clip-on.Published patent application WO 01/06298 A1, incorporated here byreference, teaches a micro-optical display utilized with eyewear. Theinventive electronic clip-on contained herein allows for a much moresimplified way to position the micro-optical display within in the lineof sight and also to electrically enable the micro-optical display. Itshould be pointed out that such a micro-optical display can be utilizedwith or without any electronic lens housed within the electronicclip-on. A clip on with magnetic attachment is illustrated in FIGS. 42Band 42C.

In certain other inventive embodiments, a mirror optical splitter isincluded within the lens housed by the clip-on and an optical image isdirected through the lens house within the clip-on where it opticallycommunicates with the optical splitter housed within the lens. In thiscase the clip-on allows for a virtual image to appear as if it isfloating in space in front of the wearer.

FIGS. 43A thru 43D show how the inventive electronic clip-on orelectronic snap-on 4230 can remain connected at the top of theelectronic eyewear 4310 to which it is attached but rotate uphorizontally or pivot out of the way, using a hinge or pivot 4350attached to a clip 4340. In this case, when wearing the inventiveembodiment contained within FIG. 43B of a heads up display, the displaycan be positioned out of the way when it is not being utilized. Also asshown in FIGS. 43C and 43D, the inventive electronic clip can house acamera which can be positioned out of the way when not being utilized.

FIG. 44 illustrates clip-ons or snap-ons that are attached as monocular.In this case, monocular clip-ons 4430 and 4440 are attached to the right4420 and left 4410 side of the split frame. In practice however, such adesign could be used on a frame that did not break or separate at thenose bridge. Attachment in either case can be mechanical, magnetic, or acombination of the two. FIG. 45 illustrates a clip on visor outfittedwith a micro-optical display and associated viewing optics.

FIG. 46A illustrates an inventive embodiment wherein a Sunblade™ typevisor 4620 is fitted with a micro-optical display and associated viewingoptics 4630 and attached to a frame about a pivot point 4650. Theillustration in FIG. 46A is that of the visor in the up positionallowing the user to look straight ahead without having their viewobscured by the visor and or the micro-optical display and/or the visor.FIG. 46B illustrates the visor in the down position allowing the wearerto look through the viewing optics to see the micro-optical display.FIG. 46C illustrates a side view of three different positions for thevisor as worn by the user.

FIG. 47 illustrates the use of two micro-optical displays and associatedviewing optics 4720 and 4730 for producing 3D viewing by the wearer.Since each eye will be positioned in front of its own micro-opticaldisplay, there will be no need to worry about isolating left eye andright eye images provided by the video player 4710 in producing a 3Deffect for the user.

FIG. 48A illustrates another inventive embodiment of the presentinvention. The details of a break-away magnetic hinge with electricalcontacts are shown. The frame 4810 which would house the electro-activeeyewear contains two magnets 4820 and 4821 that are electricallyisolated from one another with an insulating ring or cylinder 4830.Contact points 4822 and 4823 are made on or within each magnet toprovide contact to the wires 4824 and 4825 that power the electroactivelens that resides in the frame (frame side for patient's right eyeillustrated in the figure). The temple side of the frame 4840 includescontact points 4841 and 4842 to metallic and or magnetic surfaces 4843and 4844, which are also electrically insulated from one another with aninsulating ring 4850. The two contact points 4841 and 4842 provideelectrical contact to the wires 4845 and 4846 that run up the frame stemto the power supply and/or controller attached to the back of the frametether.

This inventive embodiment allows one to make electrical connectionsthrough a frame hinge without actually running wires through the framehinge. It also allows one to break the frame from the temple to placethe frame and frame tether over one's head. In practice the break-awaymagnetic frame hinge can be placed on both sides of the frame or on justone side of the frame. In the cases where the break-away magnetic framehinge is used on just one side of the frame, the other side of the framemay include a conventional frame hinge or no frame hinge. While thebreak-away magnetic frame hinge has been illustrated with electricalconnectivity, it is understood that the break-away magnetic frame hingemay be used for non-powered lenses and as such would only require asingle magnet on either frame or temple (or both sides) of the framehinge. Alternatively the electrical connections could be made withoutusing the magnets as electrical contacts. In this case a single magneton either the frame or temple side of the hinge could be used as long asthe electrical contacts are properly insulated from one another.

It is should be noted that the invention contemplates the placement ofthe magnet on the temple and the metal hinge piece on the frame front asshown in FIG. 48A.

FIG. 48B illustrates an embodiment wherein, the cylinder shaped magnet4875 is placed on the frame stem temple 4840 instead of the frame 4810.In this case, a hollow cylinder 4870 with an internal metallic surfacethat is attracted to the cylinder shaped magnet 4875 is placed on theframe. This is also illustrated without electrical conductive wires,since applications for such a breakaway frame hinge exist where noelectrical power is used. It should be pointed out that both thecylinder shaped magnet 4875 and hollow cylinder may be made of magneticmaterials; or only one piece need be magnetic as long as the other ismade from a metal that can be magnetized and thus attracted by a magnet,for example ferrous metals, such steel or iron.

In another inventive embodiment of the invention, an electronic tetheris used in association with a frame having two breakaway magnetichinges, one for each side of the frame front. In this embodiment themagnets are located on the breakaway stems and the electronic tether isconnected to the rear of each stem. It should be pointed out that themagnet breakaway hinge could be used for electronic eyewear ornon-electronic eyewear. Also, those active individuals such as athletesand children will benefit greatly by having eyewear with breakawayhinges. Further, this inventive embodiment solves a nuisance that hasbeen prevalent within the optical industry for decades, that being hingescrews that come loose or fall out.

The inventive embodiment solves this historical problem by doing awaywith the hinge screw and replacing it with a magnet. While the preferredshape of the magnet is that of cylindrical shape as shown in FIG. 48A,it could be of any shape that would provide the functionality that isneeded. This inventive embodiment allows for the wearer to simply detachthe frame front from their eyewear and then connect the two stemscontaining magnets together, forming a necklace with a magnetic closure.This can be done while maintaining the functionality of the electronictether. In other words, while the electronic tether and stems areconnected by the magnetic closure, the electronic tether plus the stemsbecome a necklace and can be used to play audio to the wearer. By way ofexample only, the MP3 player could remain functioning and using theadjustable ear speakers or ear phones as shown in FIG. 30A it ispossible to simply adjust for more speaker wire and thus utilizespeakers in each ear while wearing the magnetically closed necklace. Itshould be pointed out that that the magnets can be used in any manner toaccomplish this embodiment. By way of example only, a single hingemagnet can be used on each stem or one hinge magnet can be used on thestem and one on the opposite frame front where the other hinge connects,etc. It is further contemplated that the two magnetic ends of the tethercan be attached to an independent locket that would be attachable anddetachable to each of the two magnetic ends thus dressing up thenecklace.

Finally, it should be pointed out that the structure to which the magnetof a magnetic hinge is attracted or attached to can be of any shape toprovide the proper functionality. By way of example only, it can be anopen cylinder (see FIG. 48A, open cylinder 4844 and FIG. 48B, 4870), aclosed cylinder having both ends open, one open and the other closed.The magnet can be housed within a structure to hide or dress up themagnet. The structure, by way of example only, could simply be a metalfacade that is around the magnet, thus hiding the magnet but allowingfor the magnetic affect to still contribute the proper functionalityneeded for a magnetic hinge.

FIG. 49 illustrates an inventive embodiment that allows the wearer touse the electrified tether with the integrated audio player 4910 as afashion accessory when his or her eyewear is not needed. In FIG. 49 thespectacle frame 4920 with lenses are removed and placed in a pouch orcase (not shown). A decorative pendant, broach, or necklace element 4930is then attached to the two ends of the tether that were once connectedto the spectacle frame. In this manner the wearer may continue to usethe audio device while not using their spectacles. In the case of FIG.49 the two ends of the tether are connected by magnets 4950 and 4960 tothe spectacle frame via magnets 4955 and 4965, and to the decorativependant via magnets 4970 and 4975. However, the invention anticipatesany type of satisfactory closure means, such means are well known in theart.

FIG. 50 illustrates an additional embodiment where micro-opticaldisplays 5010 and 5020 are placed within a visor on a pair ofspectacles. In this case, the micro-optical displays are placed mostlyin the back of the visor and the fronts of the micro-optical displaysare nearly flush with the front surface of the visor, closest to thewearer. Also FIG. 50 shows the embodiment with a integrated MPG3 playerand earplugs 5030 and 5040.

While the inventors have illustrated many specific examples of how toprovide power and/or drive signals to an electrically activated lensusing an electronic tether or an electrified frame, it is understoodthat other methods may be contemplated by those ordinarily skilled inthe art. Such additional methods or designs are considered within thescope and spirit of the present invention. It is also understood thatthe various features, while shown in separate illustrations, could beused in any number of combinations and still be within the scope of thepresent invention.

In some embodiments, while an electro-active lens may be used to providevision correction as described in the present invention, theelectro-active lens may also be used to provide a sunglass or tintingeffect electro-actively. By using special liquid crystal layers or otherelectro-chromic materials, the electro-active IOL of the presentinvention can reduce the amount of light that hits the retina when thelight levels in the environment become uncomfortably high, or reach alevel that can be dangerous to the eye. The sunglass effect may betriggered automatically when a light sensor built into the IOL receivesan intensity of light beyond some threshold level. Alternately, thesunglass effect may be switched remotely by the user using a wirelesscommunication device couple to the control circuitry in the IOL. Thiselectro-active sunglass effect may occur in milliseconds or less, incontrast to the relatively slow reaction time of seconds (or more) forcommercial photosensitive chemical tints in conventional lenses. Onefactor in determining the reaction time of electro-active lenses is thethinness of the liquid crystal layer. For example, a 5 micron layer ofliquid crystal may react in milliseconds.

Similarly, the focusing of the electro-active elements may be performedautomatically by using a range finder, or a tilt meter (near distancewhen looking down, far distance when looking straight), or may becontrolled remotely by the user using a wireless communication device.

There are a number of electro-chromic materials. One type consists oftransparent outside layers of electrically conductive film that hasinner layers which allow the exchange of ions. When a voltage is appliedacross the outer conductive layers, ions move from one inner layer toanother, causing a change in tinting of the electro chromic material.Reversing the voltage causes the layer to become clear again. Theelectro-chromic layers can have variable light transmittance duringoperation, from about 5 to 80 percent. This type of electro chromicglazing has “memory” and does not need constant voltage after the changehas been initiated. Further, it can be tuned to block certainwavelengths, such as infrared (heat) energy.

Another electro-chromic technology is called suspended particle display(SPD). This material contains molecular particles suspended in asolution between the plates of glass. In their natural state, theparticles move randomly and collide, blocking the direct passage oflight. When switched on, the particles align rapidly and the glazingbecomes transparent. This type of switchable glazing can block up toabout 90 percent of light. Also liquid crystal has been used to provideelectro-chromic effects in sunglasses.

The systems and methods, as disclosed herein, are directed to theproblems stated above, as well as other problems that are present inconventional techniques. Any description of various products, methods,or apparatus and their attendant disadvantages described in the“Background of the Invention” is in no way intended to limit the scopeof the invention, or to imply that invention does not include some orall of the various elements of known products, methods and apparatus inone form or another. Indeed, various embodiments of the invention may becapable of overcoming some of the disadvantages noted in the “Backgroundof the Invention,” while still retaining some or all of the variouselements of known products, methods, and apparatus in one form oranother.

The invention claimed is:
 1. Eyewear comprising: a frame comprising at least one conductor; a visor, attached to the frame, to shield eyes of the wearer of the eyewear; and at least one electronic display, attached to the visor and in electrical communication with the at least one conductor, to display information to the wearer of the eyewear.
 2. The eyewear of claim 1, wherein the visor is configured to be positioned in multiple positions relative to the pupil of the wearer's eye.
 3. The eyewear of claim 1, wherein the visor is configured to be adjustably transitioned between a first position with the at least one electronic display within the line of sight of the wearer and a second position with the at least one electronic display out of the line of sight of the wearer.
 4. The eyewear of claim 1, wherein the at least one electronic display comprises at least one of a partial video graphics array (VGA) display, a full VGA display, a monocular display, a binocular display, or a heads up display.
 5. The eyewear of claim 1, further comprising: a light, supported by the eyewear frame, to provide illumination.
 6. The eyewear of claim 5, wherein the light comprises at least one light-emitting diode.
 7. The eyewear of claim 1, wherein the at least one electronic display is configured to be controlled by a remote controller.
 8. The eyewear of claim 7, wherein the remote controller comprises a display.
 9. The eyewear of claim 7, wherein the remote controller is a wrist watch.
 10. The eyewear of claim 1, wherein the eyewear is configured to separate at a bridge of the eyewear.
 11. The eyewear of claim 1, further comprising; a lens, connected with the eyewear frame, to focus and/or attenuate light propagating through the lens towards an eye of a wearer.
 12. The eyewear of claim 1, further comprising: an earbud, mechanically coupled to the eyewear frame, to provide an audio signal to a wearer.
 13. The eyewear of claim 12, wherein the earbud is affixed to an audio cable wound at least partially on a spring loaded spool of the eyewear.
 14. The eyewear of claim 1, further comprising: a tether, attached to the frame, to hold the frame around the neck of a wearer; and a power source, disposed within the tether, to provide electrical power to at least one electronic component supported by the frame.
 15. The eyewear of claim 14, wherein the tether comprises: an electrical connector, in electrical communication with the power source, to provide an electrical connection from the power source to the at least one electronic component supported by the eyewear frame.
 16. The eyewear of claim 15, wherein the electrical connector has an asymmetric cross section to maintain proper polarity of the electrical connection from the power source to the at least one electronic component supported by the eyewear frame.
 17. The eyewear of claim 15, wherein the tether further comprises: a magnet, disposed at one end of the electrical connector, to attach the electrical connector to a corresponding electrical connection of the eyewear frame.
 18. The eyewear of claim 14, wherein the frame comprises at least one magnetic hinge to provide an electrical connection between the power supply and the at least one electronic component supported by the frame.
 19. The eyewear of claim 18, wherein the at least one magnetic hinge comprises: a female hinge part having a first pair of insulated contacts and a first magnet; and a male hinge part having a second pair of insulated contacts to mate with the first pair of insulated contacts and a second magnet to mate with the first magnet.
 20. The eyewear of claim 1, further comprising: a power source, attached to the frame and in electrical communication with the at least one conductor, to provide electrical power to the at least one electronic display.
 21. The eyewear of claim 20, wherein the at least one conductor is affixed to an outer surface of the frame with an adhesive film.
 22. The eyewear of claim 21, wherein the at least one conductor is disposed within the adhesive film.
 23. A method of displaying information to a user, the method comprising: providing eyewear comprising: a frame comprising at least one conductor; a visor attached to the frame; and at least one electronic display attached to the visor and in electrical communication with the at least one conductor; and displaying information to the user via the at least one electronic display.
 24. The method of claim 23, further comprising: providing electrical power to the at least one electronic display, via the at least one conductor, from a power source attached to the frame.
 25. The method of claim 23, further comprising: attaching a tether to the frame; and providing electrical power to the at least one electronic display, via the at least one conductor, from a power source disposed within the tether.
 26. Eyewear comprising: an eyewear frame having at least one frame stem; a power source, attached to the eyewear frame, to provide electrical power; and at least one conductor, disposed along the outer surface of the at least one frame stem, to provide an electrical connection from the power source; at least one electronic display, in electrical communication with the power source via the at least one conductor, to display information to a wearer of the eyewear; and a visor, attached to the frame and supporting the at least one electronic display, to pivot, about a pivot point, from a first position in which the at least one electronic display is within a line of sight of the wearer of the eyewear and a second position in which the at least one electronic display is out of the line of sight of the wearer of the eyewear.
 27. The eyewear system of claim 26, wherein the at least one conductor is affixed to the outer surface of the at least one frame stem with an adhesive film.
 28. The eyewear system of claim 27, wherein the at least one conductor is disposed within the adhesive film. 